We have produced 3 Japanese artillery pieces for the initial batch of figures with one more anti-aircraft gun in the pipeline. We have designed a set of crew figures for each weapon. The three artillery pieces were the most common pieces used during war in the far east so will be suitable for all campaigns and theaters. The artillery pieces are as follows.
Type 92 Battalion gun:-
The type 92 battalion gun was introduced into the Imperial Japanese army in 1932, The gun was used during the second Sino Japanese war and extensively during World War 2. This gun was developed to replace a 37mm Infantry gun and a 70mm mortar, being able to carry out both roles. A popular design feature among crews as the ability to fire horizontal or near vertical, originally provide with wooden wheels this was quickly changed to metal wheels. This weapon was used with considerable success due to its small size easily maneuvered and effective fire power against allied strongpoints trenches etc. The gun was normally transported by horse or Mule.
Weight 216Kg (476lb)
Height 775mm (2ft 7”) very small profile
Full crew 5 normally three to operate the others were horse holders ammo carriers
Caliber 70MM
Elevation -4° to +70°
Rate of fire 10 rpm
Type 1 45mm Anti-tank gun
The type 1 Anti-tank gun was introduced in 1942 as a result of the Japanese experience from the Nomonhan Incident where Japanese ATG did not fare well against Russian tanks. This was a modern design with a low profile intended to be operated kneeling or prone. Normally transported by lorry or mule horse teams.
The weapons fired six types of ammunition although the main was APHE, AP and HE. The AP could penetrate the Sherman M4 at 800 yards, so this was an effective weapon against allied tanks especially in the far east where the bulk were light and medium tanks. The APHE was less effective unable to penetrate the Sherman’s frontal armour. This suited the Japanese tactics as they waited until tanks were close and aimed for side and rear shots. Generally issued to armoured units and independent AT regiments.
No built 2,300
Weight 753kg
Caliber 47mm
Elevation -11° to +18°
Max range 6,900 m
Type 91 105mm howitzer
This 105mm howitzer entered service in 1931, a standard design based on the French Schneider canon de 105 mle. It was a crude artillery piece much smaller than its counterparts. It was still a potent and capable weapons being able to fire a 16kg shell 10,771 m and could also fire chemical, armor-piercing, and shrapnel shells. This gun was transported by a team of horses. The weapon was mainly assigned to field artillery regt and was used throughout all campaigns and theatres of the Pacific and South East Asia.
No Built 1100
Weight 1500kg
Max range 10,771m
rate of Fire 6-8 Rpm
